What is the ans for :discuss how caste is inherent in Indian Politics from x std Political science subject?

Question

What is the ans for :discuss how caste is inherent in Indian Politics from x std Political science subject?

Answer 1

In many ways, the Indian electorate is politically sophisticated.  People from quite humble circumstances will have a view on the nuclear option for electricity generation, on the boundary problem in Kashmir, relations with USA and so on.  In other ways, the political system is naive and undeveloped.  The electorate accepts that politicians will be corrupt, that the civil service is time-serving and inefficient, and that government policy promises are lies.  But still elections take place and people vote in huge numbers.

The BJP party presents itself as the party of the common man (and woman, though no one ever says that).  Their motto seems to be, "Stay with us, we understand your situation, we'll make the rich contribute more for you." Thus, BJP seems to be supported by most members of the Scheduled Caste and Tribes and OBCs.  At election time, gifts of sarees and money will be made to village leaders and their families to ensure "delivery" of the vote

Congress now presents itself as the party of progress and its motto seems to be, "With us, you can escape the limitations of your background and aspire to greater things for yourself and your family."  Congress sets its appeal towards the merchant castes, lower professionals and aspiring members of labouring groups.  It does not seem to engage in vote-buying but implies that membership is equivalent to entry into a secret society of powerful people.

The Indian Communist party has a mixed appeal.  First, to professionals and high caste managers, with the message, "Our responsibility is to help those who can't help themselves and also those who help the party."  The second message is to the very poor, "Help us to punish the unworthy rich, and gain their wealth for the community at large."  Its influence has waned in recent years, as economic development has created a new millionaire class among people from quite ordinary origins.  Property developers and builders, sportsmen, media personalities, some of the Bollywood set, criminals who have become politicians and so on.  None of them will join the Communist party.

The biggest problem in Indian politics is corruption in public life.  About one-eighth of tax revenues every year "leak" out of the national accounts.  Taking into consideration the number of public holidays in India, that means that the typical working person spends about one month every year working to pay bribes from the taxation system to politicians, civil servants, lawyers, policemen, public utility managers in telephones and water, local government officers, port officials and so on.  Both main political parties seems subject to the same degree of corruption.  Congress has spoken against it but seems unable to prevent its members (local and nationally) from taking bribes when offered.

In policy terms (and in the matter of corruption) both main parties seem indistinguishable and there appears to be no benefit for any caste or other group to vote for one rather than the other.  In that sense, caste politics is historical and emotional; it isn't based on actions or successes in relation to caste expectations or the fruits of policy.